Use the System File Checker tool to repair missing or corrupted system files. When critical Windows system files are missing or corrupted, some Windows features may stop working correctly or Windows may stop responding altogether.

Start your device from the USB drive that was created with Recovery Drive. The process to boot from a USB drive may vary by manufacturer, so refer to your device's manual if needed. Create a recovery drive to reinstall Windows in case you experience a major issue such as hardware failure.

Follow these steps to automatically diagnose and repair problems with files and folders in Windows. These problems might include the inablility to delete files or folders from the Recycle Bin, or troubles with trying to copy, move, rename, or delete a file. Select the Download button on this page.

Use this app to try to recover lost files that have been deleted from your local storage device (including internal drives, external drives, and USB devices) and can’t be restored from the Recycle Bin. Recovery on cloud storage and network file shares is not supported.

Download the drivers for the desired device from the device manufacturer's site. Make sure to download the correct drivers that match the version and architecture of Windows. Once downloaded, if necessary, uncompress the downloaded drivers. Make a note of where the drivers are located on the Windows device.

By booting from the installation media and selecting the appropriate recovery options, you can restore your system to a stable state without the need for a complete wipe. In cases where a fresh start is required, the installation media can be used for a new installation of Windows.

There are different ways to remove apps and programs, so if you can't find the one you're looking for, you can try another location. Note that some apps and programs are built into Windows and can't be uninstalled. You can try to repair a program first, if it's just not running correctly.

Microsoft is working on a resolution to prevent this issue and will provide an update in an upcoming release.

Find help and how-to articles for Windows operating systems. Get support for Windows and learn about installation, updates, privacy, security and more.

Each Surface device is eligible to receive new driver and firmware updates until its end-of-servicing date listed in Surface devices driver and firmware lifecycle for Windows-based devices. You can quickly check the health of your Surface drivers and firmware using the Surface app. Open the Surface app.